Illegal Harassment Policy

In accordance with its
policy of Nondiscrimination, Rhode Island College prohibits sexual
harassment and harassment on the basis of race, color, creed,
national or ethnic origin, religion, disability, age, sexual
orientation, gender identity or expression, or citizenship status.

Sexual harassment is a
form of gender discrimination and is a violation of State and
Federal law.

Sexual harassment is
defined to include unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual
favors or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. Such
conduct is prohibited when the behavior is directed to an individual
because of his or her gender and (1) when submission to such conduct
is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of
instruction, employment or otherwise full participation in College
life; (2) submission to or rejection of such conduct is considered
in evaluating a person's academic work or job performance; or (3)
such conduct has the purpose or effect of interfering with a
person's academic or job performance or creating a sexually
intimidating, hostile, or offensive working or educational
environment.

Complaints about illegal
harassment will be responded to promptly. Retaliation against an
individual bringing a complaint of illegal harassment constitutes a
violation of College policy as well as state and federal law. An
individual found guilty of illegal harassment or retaliation, or any
individual who initiates a fraudulent claim of harassment, shall be
subject to disciplinary action. All persons who believe that they
are or may have been victims of illegal harassment are encouraged to
seek resolution promptly through the established informal and formal
procedures of the College as set forth in the
Complaint Resolution Policy

Individuals seeking information regarding illegal
harassment may consult with any of the following offices or
individuals for advice and assistance.(A list can be obtained by clicking here.)
Those who have been witness to illegal harassment should report
their observations as well.

All employees of Rhode
Island College are expected to make every effort to ensure that
students and fellow employees are not subjected to any form of
sexual or other illegal harassment. This effort may be formal or
informal, depending on the
circumstances.

Students who engage in illegal harassment off College premises at College related
activities will be subject to discipline in accordance with the Code of Student
Conduct (see Student
Handbook).

Confidentiality will be
respected during all complaint procedures to the degree the
procedure will allow. However, if an employee or student wishes to
bring a complaint and remain anonymous, the ability of the College
to respond may be limited.

The Affirmative
Action Office has institutional responsibility for monitoring the College's
compliance with applicable state and federal laws prohibiting discrimination
in the form of illegal harassment.

College officials receiving complaints of illegal harassment should report
the same to the Affirmative Action Office so that effective monitoring of illegal
harassment incidents can take place.

Students and employees shall retain their right to seek resolution for alleged
illegal harassment by filing a complaint with responsible state and federal
civil rights agencies: